I love football. My family (my boys, DS 2's GF, my brothers, my SIL, and the grandparents) all play fantasy football. We are on our third or fourth season playing on yahoo. It's great fun.
I am a Sunday afternoon couch coach...and crazed fan (although I think I've settled down a bit over the past couple of years).
I enjoy watching all of it...high school, college and NFL.
Over the past six weeks, I've watched a whole different spin on football....football movies. I've been to three total.
First, we saw Invincible the story of Vince Papale who walked onto the Philadelphia Eagles football team in the 1970's.
Next, we saw Gridiron Gang a movie that shows what happens when juveniles are given a second chance on the football field. This is based on a true story.
Last night, we went to see Facing the Giants a faith-based movie that tells a modern-day David and Goliath story about the re-vamping of a high-school football team.
All of these films, while vastly different, have one key theme: detemination, perseverance, and passion does pay off. It may not be with a win on a scoreboard, but it's a deeper win. It's a great message.
So, today as I sit watching real college football...and tomorrow when I watch NFL football...I want to remember that the determination with which players face the game of football is no less determination than any one of us ought to face the real "game of life". We may not always post a "win"...here...but in the long-run we ARE winners!
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Thursday Thirteen #32
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Every week I get to read children's books as part of my job. There are TONS of them that I love...here are just 13 of my favorites. 1. The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn  2. The Wise Woman and Her Secret by  3. Keepers by Jeri Hanel Watts  4. Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown  5. The Mitten by Jan Brett  6. Piggie Pie by Margie Palatini  7. The Relatives Came by Cynthia Rylant  8. Amber on the Mountain by Tony Johnston  9. Strega Nona by tomie dePaola  10. Wild About Books by Judy Sierra  11. Hooray for Diffendoofer Day! by Dr. Seuss  12. Somebody and the Three Blairs by Marilyn Tolhurst  13. Stellaluna by Janell Cannon  Links to other Thursday Thirteens! |
The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
View More Thursday Thirteen Participants
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
It's MY TV, And I'll Cry if I Want To!
I very rarely watch TV. Last night, DS 3 and I sat down to watch Deal or No Deal. I think it's fun to watch the dynamics on that show. Last night, a lady was on with her husband, her family and her two daughters. When Howie Mandel asked her what she would do with the money, she said she wanted to take her kids to England (or bring her in-laws over) because they hadn't seen their grandparents. The youngest one, at 18 months, had never seen her grandparents.
The lady didn't do so well. Howie stopped at one point and told her that the show wasn't heartless, so they had the in-laws on via satellite. All of the sudden, it looked like they lost connection...and the in-laws walked out from behind the curtain.
I know the writing was on the wall for this to happen, but I just love this kind of thing. My eyes welled up with tears and DS 3 had a GREAT laugh at my expense.
THEN, we watched Wife Swap. No matter what you think about this show, I am always amazed at the potential transformation by just getting people out of their "norm" for a couple of weeks.
Last night, the changes were powerful. A Dad realized that he was ignoring his son to play 5 hours of video games every night. A Mom realized that she needed to relax and enjoy her family more. An entire family learned that winning didn't have to be the expectation of every event. Each family experienced a transformation. One husband said he agreed to do the show to save his marriage as it was headed down a road to disaster. The reconciliation of this couple was a neat thing. At the end, he asked her to marry him again.
Well...bring on the tissues! I love that stuff, too!!!
Or, maybe I'm just a sap! Whatever, as I told DS 3, I am entitled to cry if I want to! Besides, they were tears of happiness and joy for the human spirit. I think I'm going back to reading tonight!! ;-)
The lady didn't do so well. Howie stopped at one point and told her that the show wasn't heartless, so they had the in-laws on via satellite. All of the sudden, it looked like they lost connection...and the in-laws walked out from behind the curtain.
I know the writing was on the wall for this to happen, but I just love this kind of thing. My eyes welled up with tears and DS 3 had a GREAT laugh at my expense.
THEN, we watched Wife Swap. No matter what you think about this show, I am always amazed at the potential transformation by just getting people out of their "norm" for a couple of weeks.
Last night, the changes were powerful. A Dad realized that he was ignoring his son to play 5 hours of video games every night. A Mom realized that she needed to relax and enjoy her family more. An entire family learned that winning didn't have to be the expectation of every event. Each family experienced a transformation. One husband said he agreed to do the show to save his marriage as it was headed down a road to disaster. The reconciliation of this couple was a neat thing. At the end, he asked her to marry him again.
Well...bring on the tissues! I love that stuff, too!!!
Or, maybe I'm just a sap! Whatever, as I told DS 3, I am entitled to cry if I want to! Besides, they were tears of happiness and joy for the human spirit. I think I'm going back to reading tonight!! ;-)
Sunday, September 24, 2006
My Reading Notes
As you might know, I am participating in the "Fall into Reading" challenge as outlined in my last post. I picked up Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World by Joanna Weaver again yesterday. Two things struck me in my reading yesterday:
1. According to some of the research and thinking of the day, 70 people may have come to Mary and Martha's home that day for dinner. SEVENTY! Including JESUS! The problem is (in Martha's mind) that she is doing all the work, while her sister sits at the feet of Jesus. Weaver notes that Martha opened her home to Jesus and his entourage, but didn't automatically open her heart. As Luke says, "Martha was distracted by all the preparations that HAD to be made." In Martha's mind, nothing less than the very best would do. Would any of us be any different if Jesus himself came to eat in our homes?
2. But, Weaver notes that the busyness of the Kitchen is not the same as the intimacy of the Living Room.
Interesting. When I read this yesterday, I was struck by an event that happened in my own home last Christmas. We hosted our annual Open House where we invite all of our church members, families, and friends to come celebrate the season with us. In an effort to relax and enjoy this event more over the years, we asked people to bring a snack to share. Still, there is much to do during this time.
After many of the guests had come and gone, there were about 20 people still relaxing in our Family Room. I was busily trying to pick up little messes that had occured in the rest of the house. I found myself in the kitchen, trying to bring some order out of the chaos.
One of the guests in the family room, a friend from church, said, "Susan, come sit down and visit for a while." I realized in that moment, I had not really spoken to any one of those guests while they had been in my home that evening. I was too busy trying to keep up. I sat down in the Family Room with them, but I couldn't stay there. I HAD to get up and keep doing what I was doing. I think I sat for a total of five minutes...MAYBE!
How many times do we miss the opportunity to sit and relax with other people? And how important is it that we DO take the time to visit and get to know each other?
How much MORE important would it have been if we were in Mary and Martha's home?
Weaver makes another interesting observation:
"The kingdom of God, you see, is a paradox. While the world applauds achievement, God desires companionship. The world clamors, "Do more! Be all that you can be!" But our Father whispers, "Be still and know that I am God."
May we all take some time to "BE STILL" today!!
1. According to some of the research and thinking of the day, 70 people may have come to Mary and Martha's home that day for dinner. SEVENTY! Including JESUS! The problem is (in Martha's mind) that she is doing all the work, while her sister sits at the feet of Jesus. Weaver notes that Martha opened her home to Jesus and his entourage, but didn't automatically open her heart. As Luke says, "Martha was distracted by all the preparations that HAD to be made." In Martha's mind, nothing less than the very best would do. Would any of us be any different if Jesus himself came to eat in our homes?
2. But, Weaver notes that the busyness of the Kitchen is not the same as the intimacy of the Living Room.
Interesting. When I read this yesterday, I was struck by an event that happened in my own home last Christmas. We hosted our annual Open House where we invite all of our church members, families, and friends to come celebrate the season with us. In an effort to relax and enjoy this event more over the years, we asked people to bring a snack to share. Still, there is much to do during this time.
After many of the guests had come and gone, there were about 20 people still relaxing in our Family Room. I was busily trying to pick up little messes that had occured in the rest of the house. I found myself in the kitchen, trying to bring some order out of the chaos.
One of the guests in the family room, a friend from church, said, "Susan, come sit down and visit for a while." I realized in that moment, I had not really spoken to any one of those guests while they had been in my home that evening. I was too busy trying to keep up. I sat down in the Family Room with them, but I couldn't stay there. I HAD to get up and keep doing what I was doing. I think I sat for a total of five minutes...MAYBE!
How many times do we miss the opportunity to sit and relax with other people? And how important is it that we DO take the time to visit and get to know each other?
How much MORE important would it have been if we were in Mary and Martha's home?
Weaver makes another interesting observation:
"The kingdom of God, you see, is a paradox. While the world applauds achievement, God desires companionship. The world clamors, "Do more! Be all that you can be!" But our Father whispers, "Be still and know that I am God."
May we all take some time to "BE STILL" today!!
Friday, September 22, 2006
Right Up My Alley....
I was SO excited about this post over at To Reflect His Glory today!! It turns out thatCallapidderdays is sponsoring this challenge called Fall into Reading.
The idea is to list all those books you intend to read this Fall. There's a prize that will be selected at random at the end. You know what, though? It's not about the prize, for me. It's about the fact that I need to take the time to do the very thing I LOVE and the very thing that is my PASSION! I am hoping that some of you will join me.
Since I'm a Reading Specialist who is EXTREMELY far behind on her reading (both personally and professionally), I thought I'd jump in with the group. I went right to my bedside table, brought all my books out to the living room, and took this picture:
This is only a SMALL portion of my "To Be Read" books. I have many more at work that are waiting in line.I'll delineate here:
Non-fiction (at home)
1. Ending Your Day Right: Devotions for Ending the Day Right by Joyce Meyer
2. My Bible--no, I don't get to really READ it everyday. It's something that I know is important and that deserves so much priority.
3. Having a Mary Heart In a Martha World by Joanna Weaver. - If you've read my blog at all, you know I NEED this book!! The problem is, I've been a bit too "Martha" lately to actually sit down and READ the thing!!!!
4. What Really Matters for Struggling Readers by Richard Allington - I've read this before, but this is an updated version of it. This book directly impacts the population we serve at my school and thus impacts the job I do every single day.
Non-fiction (at work)
5. Reading Lolita in Tehran by Azar Nafisi - This book has intrigued me since it came out. It is a very deep read and I have had it in my pile. I finally picked it up the other day and am trying to read it a little chunk at a time. It would be a great reading group book. Every time I read a chunk, I want to talk to someone else about it.
6. Literacy Leadership: Six Strategies for People Work by Donald A. McAndrew - We received this book at one of our recent literacy meetings. We each read a portion and shared our portion. This definitely made me want to read the rest of it and really dig into it. It is a keeper that could impact my job for sure.7. Bringing Words to Life: Robust Vocabulary Instruction by Isabell Beck and margaret G. McKeown. I'm going to be conducting a book study group on this book in the very near future. I guess it'd be nice if I picked it up and previewed it, right??
Fiction (at home)
The following books are in my stack in the photo above:
8. the devil wears prada by Lauren Weisberger - OK, I admit it just intrigued me a bit. A friend read it and whet my appetite.
9. Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden - I've always wanted to read this. I bought it in a 2-for-1 sale not long ago. It's been closed in my pile since then.
10. The Mermaid Chair by Sue Monk Kidd - I wanted to read it because I LOVED Secret Life of Bees. I talked to my cousin, Lynn, about it and she said she didn't really like it as much as "Bees"...I think that's why I didn't dive right in. It's amazing what the "blessing of a book" or "not blessing of a book" means to a reader, isn't it?
11. Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd - I REALLY loved it and want to read it again!!!!
12. The Rescue by Nicholas Sparks - I put these away when I got weepy around the time of DS 1's high school graduation. I think I am about ready emotionally to handle a new Sparks' book.
13. The Wedding by Nicholas Sparks - See my comment above.Books that were loaned to me and recommended by friends:
14. Angelas Ashes by Frank McCourt - A friend loaned me this months ago. It has gone virtually untouched.
15. Teacher Man by Frank McCourt - Also given to me by the same friend. I WILL get through this book!!
16. Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas by James Patterson - A friend recommended this to me after she read it and was ready to put it in our book swap basket at work. There it sits, at work, waiting!
OK, I am definitely challenged and motivated to get started. Maybe I'll finish a couple this weekend!! If you want to join in, hurry over to Callapidderdays and sign up!!
Happy Reading!!
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Thursday Thirteen #31
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OK, I know it's a little materialistic...but I LOVE to shop! Here are the best places I've been around the country: 1. From my WW yesterday, you should guess #1. The Magnificent Mile in Chicago 2. Providence Place in Providence, Rhode Island 3. Ikea (anywhere) the stores I have been to are in Chicago and Atlanta. 4. Prime Outlets in Lee, Massachusetts I love shopping in New England where there's no tax on clothes--EVER!! 5. Opry Mills in Nashville is definitely among my "must-visit-when-you're-in-the-neighborhood"-places. 6. Lenox Square in Atlanta, Georgia is a very cool mall to visit. 7. Circle Centre in Indianapolis is a very neat mall, too. I especially like the stores and restaurants that are surrounding it as well. 8. Fayette Mall in Lexington, KY is more of a memory maker for me. I loved my time in Kentucky and still feel, in some ways, it's "home" for dh and me. 9. The Florida Mall in Orlando is a great mall with all my favorite stores. 10. Carson Pirie Scott isn't on the Magnificent Mile, but is on State Street in Chicago...LOVE IT!! 11. Ellenton Prime Outlets in Ellenton, Florida is one of my more frequent outlet trips. 12. Meijer's is a place I always stop when I am in Ohio. I can find great deals in there...and we don't have them in the south. 13. La Jolla California is definitely a place I loved browsing stores even though I've only been there once. |
The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
View More Thursday Thirteen Participants
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
I Know Why....
Recently my Dad was talking to me about blogging. He reads my blog, my brother Greg's Blog, and my brother Dan's Blog on a regular basis. As we were talking about how neat it is to be able to keep up with family, Dad commented, "I just don't know how or why you'd read someone else's blog." I tried to explain a little, but didn't really go much further with my personal "why".
Actually, that's kind of percolated in my mind now for a few weeks. WHY do I read other blogs? Is it because I am nosey? Maybe. :-) I tend to visit blogs of people with whom I have something in common. Sometimes I find one that someone has in their favorites and I go check it out. The only reason I return is because I enjoy the writing, find the person interesting, or maybe feel connected to them in some way.
Some of you know that I am planning a trip in October to Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. I am planning to meet up with two "blogging friends" who visit me (and I visit them) regularly, Sandy and Mary. Now some of you might be surprised that I would meet up with "total strangers". But they're not total strangers. I have been reading and commenting on their blogs for months. (Plus that, my other "blogging friend" Lazy Daisy says she knows Sandy personally and assures me she's no axe murderer! ;-) )
I can still hear my Dad wondering why you'd read someone else's blog. Maybe it's a "girl thing". I don't know that I can sum up the answer briefly, because it's complex to me.
This morning, though, I received the sweetest email from my blogging friend, Mary. She entered the contest below and asked another "blogging friend" and GREAT Blog designer, Susie to give me her five chances for winning a new blog design. See Mary just updated hers. Now, THAT is not the kind of thing that strangers (or axe murderers) do. It's the kind of things FRIENDS do.
So, why do I read other people's blogs? I guess the best way to sum it up is because I believe the old adage is true: "A stranger is a friend you have yet to meet."
I'm glad I've "met" so many new friends...even if it's via mouse and keyboard!!! Happy Blogging!!
Actually, that's kind of percolated in my mind now for a few weeks. WHY do I read other blogs? Is it because I am nosey? Maybe. :-) I tend to visit blogs of people with whom I have something in common. Sometimes I find one that someone has in their favorites and I go check it out. The only reason I return is because I enjoy the writing, find the person interesting, or maybe feel connected to them in some way.
Some of you know that I am planning a trip in October to Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. I am planning to meet up with two "blogging friends" who visit me (and I visit them) regularly, Sandy and Mary. Now some of you might be surprised that I would meet up with "total strangers". But they're not total strangers. I have been reading and commenting on their blogs for months. (Plus that, my other "blogging friend" Lazy Daisy says she knows Sandy personally and assures me she's no axe murderer! ;-) )
I can still hear my Dad wondering why you'd read someone else's blog. Maybe it's a "girl thing". I don't know that I can sum up the answer briefly, because it's complex to me.
This morning, though, I received the sweetest email from my blogging friend, Mary. She entered the contest below and asked another "blogging friend" and GREAT Blog designer, Susie to give me her five chances for winning a new blog design. See Mary just updated hers. Now, THAT is not the kind of thing that strangers (or axe murderers) do. It's the kind of things FRIENDS do.
So, why do I read other people's blogs? I guess the best way to sum it up is because I believe the old adage is true: "A stranger is a friend you have yet to meet."
I'm glad I've "met" so many new friends...even if it's via mouse and keyboard!!! Happy Blogging!!
Sunday, September 17, 2006
I Love Contests!!
Susie over at BlueBird Blogs is having a contest to win a free blog design. This is a great way to get your blog refreshed and looking new. She's going to choose two winners next weekend. Here's information from Susie on how to enter:
Hello Everyone!
Autumn is my favorite time of the year, and it's just right around the corner. To celebrate the beginning of the season, I'm having a contest for 2 lucky people to win a totally free, completely customized blog design from Bluebird Blogs.
- Send an email with your name and blog address to bluebirdblogs@gmail.com.
- Your name will be entered into the drawing.
- Entries will be accepted from 7:00pm EST on Thursday 9/15/06 until 11:59pm EST on Friday 9/22/06.
*Bonus* - Mention this contest in a post on your blog and receive 5 extra entries into the drawing!
The winner will be announced on http://bluebirdblogs.blogspot.com on the morning of Saturday, September 23rd, 2006 . Good luck to everyone!
Thanks so much,
~Susie
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Ready for the Weekend?
I know this post is going up on Saturday, so you'd think I was already "IN" the weekend, but I'm not. This week has been crazy! And there seems to be no end in sight at the moment.
My new book (to debut at an event in October) came back this week FULL of changes that I had to make. The designer didn't "get it" on some pages and simply missed. The editing process is NOT my favorite part of writing. Since we've been pretty much editing this thing since February, I was hoping that I wouldn't have to make many changes at all. Ahh...the joy and the agony of creating something new!! That meant a few (almost) sleepless nights. Don't get me wrong, I am excited about it...it's just when things are done wrong, it's frustrating!
I have 45 Teacher's Guides to write on top of the book stuff. As you can imagine, I put those on hold while I stuck my head in the book. These 45 guides cry out to me daily...yet, I haven't had the chance to get started. This "weekend" I've GOT to get some done. That publisher is waiting and starting to get a bit anxious.
Still a third publisher wants another book done by November and has been emailing this week to nail down dates. It's 3/4 of the way "done"...I just don't know when I can get to the last 3/4!!
DH has been out of town. I love that he gets to travel and coach and consult. I still don't sleep really well when he's gone. He comes back today, thank goodness.
DS 4 has been sick twice this week...at the beginning and the end. He is still coughing like crazy and has a sore throat. I don't know if he has strep or not. Thank goodness Grandma and Grandpa can run sick bay for me!!
Today is soccer for DS 2. It's an hour away. We'll go there and THEN I'll have to work when I get home.
At my regular job, I have had to find a way to shuffle some stuff due to a new district committee on which I will be serving. This starts Monday and goes for the next 7 weeks from 3:30 - 5:30. This means that I have to make some plans this weekend for a group I see on Mondays at school (MORE lesson plans????).
Tomorrow's church and meetings and stuff. Sometimes Sundays is restful, tomorrow it won't be. Everybody in my family (except DS 4 and I) have a commitment tomorrow afternoon and/or evening.
So, here I am thinking "Yep, I'm ready and waiting for the weekend." It's just NOT going to be this one. It will have to be NEXT week or maybe NEXT month at the rate I'm going. Most of the time I juggle pretty well. Some weeks, though, like this one, make me feel like juggling isn't my forte'.
I think I'll set my sights on NEXT weekend and take things one day and one moment and one event at a time right now. If I am absent from your blogs or for those who know me IRL, simply absent, you'll know why. I know, though, that somewhere sometime when I least expect it, a weekend is coming!!
My new book (to debut at an event in October) came back this week FULL of changes that I had to make. The designer didn't "get it" on some pages and simply missed. The editing process is NOT my favorite part of writing. Since we've been pretty much editing this thing since February, I was hoping that I wouldn't have to make many changes at all. Ahh...the joy and the agony of creating something new!! That meant a few (almost) sleepless nights. Don't get me wrong, I am excited about it...it's just when things are done wrong, it's frustrating!
I have 45 Teacher's Guides to write on top of the book stuff. As you can imagine, I put those on hold while I stuck my head in the book. These 45 guides cry out to me daily...yet, I haven't had the chance to get started. This "weekend" I've GOT to get some done. That publisher is waiting and starting to get a bit anxious.
Still a third publisher wants another book done by November and has been emailing this week to nail down dates. It's 3/4 of the way "done"...I just don't know when I can get to the last 3/4!!
DH has been out of town. I love that he gets to travel and coach and consult. I still don't sleep really well when he's gone. He comes back today, thank goodness.
DS 4 has been sick twice this week...at the beginning and the end. He is still coughing like crazy and has a sore throat. I don't know if he has strep or not. Thank goodness Grandma and Grandpa can run sick bay for me!!
Today is soccer for DS 2. It's an hour away. We'll go there and THEN I'll have to work when I get home.
At my regular job, I have had to find a way to shuffle some stuff due to a new district committee on which I will be serving. This starts Monday and goes for the next 7 weeks from 3:30 - 5:30. This means that I have to make some plans this weekend for a group I see on Mondays at school (MORE lesson plans????).
Tomorrow's church and meetings and stuff. Sometimes Sundays is restful, tomorrow it won't be. Everybody in my family (except DS 4 and I) have a commitment tomorrow afternoon and/or evening.
So, here I am thinking "Yep, I'm ready and waiting for the weekend." It's just NOT going to be this one. It will have to be NEXT week or maybe NEXT month at the rate I'm going. Most of the time I juggle pretty well. Some weeks, though, like this one, make me feel like juggling isn't my forte'.
I think I'll set my sights on NEXT weekend and take things one day and one moment and one event at a time right now. If I am absent from your blogs or for those who know me IRL, simply absent, you'll know why. I know, though, that somewhere sometime when I least expect it, a weekend is coming!!
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Thursday Thirteen #30
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1. Organization bureaucracy is so frustrating! 2. How can a terrorist smile? 3. What is the purpose of going 90 miles an hour through the day and never stopping to take it in? 4. If you want to live longer, you've got to take care of yourself. 5. I don't think I could ever be a single mother. I honor those people who do it and succeed. 6. I love my boys. I miss them when they are so busy going in so many different directions. 7. All four of them inherited musical talent, and I am grateful. 8. I wish our family (and extended family) could all live together on one giant piece of property. Enough distance to give everyone their privacy, but close enough to see each other more frequently. 9. I really DO need 8 hours of sleep! I don't function well on six or less..especially when it's multiple nights in a row. 10. I love my job. More and more I realize that the people I work with make it a great place to be. 11. I need to stop and pray more. 12. I need to learn to cook in bulk and freeze....just like Grandma's Kitchen...Grandma, I may need some lessons!! 13. I am thankful for so many people, I just don't tell them so often enough. Links to other Thursday Thirteens! |
The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
View More Thursday Thirteen Participants
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
I DO believe in Arts Education...I DO! I DO!
My school has an arts focus. We teach our kids drama and dance in addition to music and visual arts. We also have a violin program that starts in second grade. DS 4 goes to my school and decided that he'd like to do violin this year. Today we brought home the violin.
It's just the two of us home tonight. So, I am the audience. I don't think he is going to be your average violin player. Nope. He wants to play the movements that are FAST and use ALL the strings at once. Can you say fingernails on the chalkboard on steroids?
Remember that this is the musician who is confident that he already knows how to play stringed instruments. He has been playing his Father's guitar with great zeal since he was a toddler. He really plays and sings with confidence.
So, here I sit getting my fourth "concert" of the night. He plays into the mirror so he can see his form. The bow is tightened up. The violin is working fine. So are my ears!
He's happy and I KNOW music education can make a great difference in the lives of young children. In fact, there is much research to show this to be true.
Hey, considering his dream the other night (that he was Albert Einstein)...I wonder if tonight he'll dream he is Bach or Beethoven? Hey, it could happen! And, if it does, he could thank a teacher (and his family who listened to these first few screeches--I mean notes)!!
It's just the two of us home tonight. So, I am the audience. I don't think he is going to be your average violin player. Nope. He wants to play the movements that are FAST and use ALL the strings at once. Can you say fingernails on the chalkboard on steroids?
Remember that this is the musician who is confident that he already knows how to play stringed instruments. He has been playing his Father's guitar with great zeal since he was a toddler. He really plays and sings with confidence.
So, here I sit getting my fourth "concert" of the night. He plays into the mirror so he can see his form. The bow is tightened up. The violin is working fine. So are my ears!
He's happy and I KNOW music education can make a great difference in the lives of young children. In fact, there is much research to show this to be true.
Hey, considering his dream the other night (that he was Albert Einstein)...I wonder if tonight he'll dream he is Bach or Beethoven? Hey, it could happen! And, if it does, he could thank a teacher (and his family who listened to these first few screeches--I mean notes)!!
Where do you shop?
I love my job. We have some GREAT kids! As you may recall, many of them come from homes of poverty. It's interesting to hear their thinking sometimes.
Yesterday, I wore a dress to work. I guess I don't wear dresses very often because I am often up and down on the floor. I was in a first grade classroom observing a student when a little girl reached out to feel the dress. This is not uncommon. It was a bit silky and felt different than your average khaki cloth.
Anyway, she looked up at me with huge eyes and said, "I like yo' dress!"
I said, "thank you!"
She said, "You get that dress at Waaalllmarrttt??"
I said, "No."
She said, "You get that dress at Publix????"
Inside, I said, "HUH????" Outside, I smiled and said, "No."
Now I should tell those of you who don't live in the south that Publix is our local grocery store.
I thought about telling her where I got the dress, but I know the store where I purchased it simply is not in her schema. My only regret is that I let my dumbfounded state stop me from doing a quick little mini-lesson about the availability of dresses at a grocery store! Oh well, next time.
Yesterday, I wore a dress to work. I guess I don't wear dresses very often because I am often up and down on the floor. I was in a first grade classroom observing a student when a little girl reached out to feel the dress. This is not uncommon. It was a bit silky and felt different than your average khaki cloth.
Anyway, she looked up at me with huge eyes and said, "I like yo' dress!"
I said, "thank you!"
She said, "You get that dress at Waaalllmarrttt??"
I said, "No."
She said, "You get that dress at Publix????"
Inside, I said, "HUH????" Outside, I smiled and said, "No."
Now I should tell those of you who don't live in the south that Publix is our local grocery store.
I thought about telling her where I got the dress, but I know the store where I purchased it simply is not in her schema. My only regret is that I let my dumbfounded state stop me from doing a quick little mini-lesson about the availability of dresses at a grocery store! Oh well, next time.
Monday, September 11, 2006
I Do Remember....
I do remember exactly what I was doing the day the world changed. I remember hugging my kids a little harder. Talking to my husband. Crying. I remember wishing I could run away...move somewhere where this type of thing doesn't happen. Yes, I remember.
I watched the news. I read the newspaper. But I wasn't totally fixated on the event. I think I tried to "put it out of my mind" rather quickly. I know that may have been wrong. It was simply my way of "dealing".
Here I am five years later. I have watched documentaries. I have read tributes all over blogdom. I think, in an odd sort of way, the human element has finally hit me. As I read and/or hear each account, I realize that these were people with stories. Sure I knew it five years ago. But today I know it deeper.
I have hugged my kids a little tighter this week. I have talked to my husband a bit about it. I have cried. I don't want to run away anymore, but I DO find myself longing for a simpler less complex life. A place that feels safe and comfortable. A place where love abounds and hatred simply isn't. I'm sure there is no Earthly place like that.
While on that day the world changed in some pretty negative ways. I think it also changed for good. There was so much heroism and compassion shown. The human spirit was alive and well. It's not 15 hijackers that are getting the most airplay. Nope, it's the great deeds of men and women of all ages, sizes, colors, and faith backgrounds. I am proud to be an American. I am proud to be a Christian in America. I pray that we will all find ways to reach out and show compassion and love in a big way when given the opportunity. Personally, I believe this is the only thing that will ever change the world for good. And quite honestly, it may have happened on a grander scale on 9-11-01 than ever before or since in the 40+ years I've been alive. It's there I want to put my focus and my energy.
Yes, I remember!
God Bless America!!
Sunday, September 10, 2006
They DO Grow Up! Happy Birthday DS 2!
DS 2 is 17 today. In some ways it is hard to believe and in others it's not. He was born 15 months after DS 1. They quickly became not only brothers, but friends. He has always loved to experiment and see how things work. This is the son who loved to color on the TV screen because he didn't think the picture was bright enough. He is the one who tried to give the new kitten a bath in the toilet...and flushed! He loved to pour, mix, stir, anything he could find. He was the first (but not the last) to get stitches as he played Superman off my dining room chair.
He's grown into a fine young man who makes his mother proud! DS 2 is a caring and compassionate individual who loves life. He loves to help others laugh and have a good time too. He loves to play soccer, his drums, and be with his friends. He is actively involved in two worship bands at the church and just completed his THIRD mission trip.
He absolutely adores his GF. It's refreshing to see them be truly best friends! They love to laugh and have fun together. They are committed to seeking God's will for their relationship and have placed Him at the center of it. To watch that is such a blessing!
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DS 2 has always been someone who (as my Dad says) "Goes for the Gusto"! As one of his favorite middle school teachers told me last year, "He's a complete package!" He is a joy in our lives! I suspect with this type of determination that he will be successful in whatever he chooses to do. And I, for one, can't wait to see what the future holds.
Happy Birthday, Son! I love you!!
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Dream Follow-up...
This is a follow-up to the post below....
DS 4 just woke up and said, "Mom, I had the weirdest night." I asked why. He said, "I dreamed I was Albert Einstein." I said, "What do you know about Albert Einstein?" He replied, "He was the smartest man at that time." I said, "Oh, that's interesting!"
Upon further reflection, I guess I should have responded....
May all your dreams come true.
DS 4 just woke up and said, "Mom, I had the weirdest night." I asked why. He said, "I dreamed I was Albert Einstein." I said, "What do you know about Albert Einstein?" He replied, "He was the smartest man at that time." I said, "Oh, that's interesting!"
Upon further reflection, I guess I should have responded....
May all your dreams come true.
He Has a Dream....
Dh is out of town this weekend. He comes back in today and will leave again tomorrow for a week. Last night, DS 4 fell asleep in my bed. Before I could move him, I also fell asleep. About 2:00 this morning he was making a weird sound that woke me up. I said, "Are you OK?" He put his head up and said, "I was dreaming that I was Albert Einstein." HUH??????
First of all, I didn't even know he knew who Albert Einstein was. Secondly, WHO dreams they are Albert Einstein?
But, at least he dreams BIG, you know what I mean? I thought about moving him to his own bed...but then I decided I really wanted to be there in case he thought he was someone else later on....
He's still sleeping as I write this. I can't wait for him to wake up so I can ask the big question: "How'd you sleep?" Who knows who else might have popped up in his mind!
First of all, I didn't even know he knew who Albert Einstein was. Secondly, WHO dreams they are Albert Einstein?
But, at least he dreams BIG, you know what I mean? I thought about moving him to his own bed...but then I decided I really wanted to be there in case he thought he was someone else later on....
He's still sleeping as I write this. I can't wait for him to wake up so I can ask the big question: "How'd you sleep?" Who knows who else might have popped up in his mind!
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
A New Week Begins...
Our weekend was a busy, but fun one. I went to a jewelry party on Friday, spent the day with the "girls" on Saturday, and went to church on Sunday. Yesterday, we had a cookout with our extended family. Today, it was back to work...but there were no kids there because it was professional day.
I did a workshop this morning for our primary teachers. I was again reminded that sometimes adults act like children. I hate that. We're implementing a new program at the school to give our kids targeted small group instruction in reading for thirty minutes daily. This requires all hands to be on deck and that we tap into all the resource personnel at our school.
Some of the "extra people" aren't happy. They don't "have time to plan". They have other things that should take priority over these kids at this time of the day. They don't know "what they'll use" to work with their groups. The excuses and complaints went on and on and on with about four people. And even though they are a minority in the grand scheme of things, their complaints are annoying!
I work in a school that has many students who struggle. They need additional help. I also work in a school system that "laid off" 84 paraprofessionals this summer. I really wanted to tell some of these people, "There are 84 people in this town who would LOVE to have the opportunity to plan your small group!" Of course, those are thoughts that must remain (as DS 2 says) "behind the filter".
As I worked with these 35+ teachers and paraprofessionals today, I realized something. It's true that there often must be dissonance and uncertainty before something great is created. I am confident that things will work out. It is simply going to take time to get everyone on board and for them to see that this will be worthwhile. We can make a difference. I know we can...I know we can!
I did a workshop this morning for our primary teachers. I was again reminded that sometimes adults act like children. I hate that. We're implementing a new program at the school to give our kids targeted small group instruction in reading for thirty minutes daily. This requires all hands to be on deck and that we tap into all the resource personnel at our school.
Some of the "extra people" aren't happy. They don't "have time to plan". They have other things that should take priority over these kids at this time of the day. They don't know "what they'll use" to work with their groups. The excuses and complaints went on and on and on with about four people. And even though they are a minority in the grand scheme of things, their complaints are annoying!
I work in a school that has many students who struggle. They need additional help. I also work in a school system that "laid off" 84 paraprofessionals this summer. I really wanted to tell some of these people, "There are 84 people in this town who would LOVE to have the opportunity to plan your small group!" Of course, those are thoughts that must remain (as DS 2 says) "behind the filter".
As I worked with these 35+ teachers and paraprofessionals today, I realized something. It's true that there often must be dissonance and uncertainty before something great is created. I am confident that things will work out. It is simply going to take time to get everyone on board and for them to see that this will be worthwhile. We can make a difference. I know we can...I know we can!
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Menopause....One More Time!
You may want to read last year's post regarding Menopause the Musical before you read this one.
This year, it came back to my hometown. As I talked with my Mom, Stepmom and SIL about birthdays, I really thought we just needed a "Girls' Night Out". So, they agreed to go see this musical that I enjoyed so much one year ago.
Last night, was our night. There was no "Estrogen Induced" fit like last year, no. But, there was a HUGE ball of testosterone sitting in front of me! I told the girls, "Boys don't belong at this show." This man was BIG. It was kind of like having a wall erected between me and the stage. Just before the show started, I did ask one of the attendants if all the seats were full. They were. She offered to come help me find a way to "wiggle my chair" so I could see. I reminded myself that I wanted to be calm and I sat down.
Actually, I could see fine 90% of the time. We laughed until we cried. It is just a funny portrayal of "Woman-hood" and all that (ahem) maturing has to offer! I had to laugh though, at one point the place was erupting in laughter and the two men in front of us (the wall and his friend) who were there with two women, just sat staunchly. They didn't clap. They didn't move. I'm thinkin' they knew they simply did NOT belong in a show about female changes!!!! I can almost hear them in their best Desi Arnez impression, "LUCY, you got some 'splainin' to do!"
WE were smart enough to leave all the boys in our families (and there are PLENTY of them) at home. We topped our evening off with a trip to Panera's for some coffee and pastries.
I think we should do it again, sometime. Girls???? What do you say???
This year, it came back to my hometown. As I talked with my Mom, Stepmom and SIL about birthdays, I really thought we just needed a "Girls' Night Out". So, they agreed to go see this musical that I enjoyed so much one year ago.
Last night, was our night. There was no "Estrogen Induced" fit like last year, no. But, there was a HUGE ball of testosterone sitting in front of me! I told the girls, "Boys don't belong at this show." This man was BIG. It was kind of like having a wall erected between me and the stage. Just before the show started, I did ask one of the attendants if all the seats were full. They were. She offered to come help me find a way to "wiggle my chair" so I could see. I reminded myself that I wanted to be calm and I sat down.
Actually, I could see fine 90% of the time. We laughed until we cried. It is just a funny portrayal of "Woman-hood" and all that (ahem) maturing has to offer! I had to laugh though, at one point the place was erupting in laughter and the two men in front of us (the wall and his friend) who were there with two women, just sat staunchly. They didn't clap. They didn't move. I'm thinkin' they knew they simply did NOT belong in a show about female changes!!!! I can almost hear them in their best Desi Arnez impression, "LUCY, you got some 'splainin' to do!"
WE were smart enough to leave all the boys in our families (and there are PLENTY of them) at home. We topped our evening off with a trip to Panera's for some coffee and pastries.
I think we should do it again, sometime. Girls???? What do you say???
Friday, September 01, 2006
This Makes Me ANGRY!
This is a story from our local paper. This little girl used to go to my school...she is now at a different school and in foster care. The case was absolutely pathetic...this proves it:
Police arrested a 55-year-old woman Thursday on charges she beat and tortured a 7-year-old girl in her care.
LJ, is accused of beating a 7-year-old girl with extension cords, belts and hitting her in the head with the heel of a sandal. According to police, the girl also had raised bumps from head to toe that indicated she had been forced to live in filth.
LJ made the girl sleep on the floor and denied her food because she wet herself, a report stated.
"I've been doing this 26 years and this is the worst case of abuse I've seen," Capt. WS said. "Especially in a case that did not result in the death of a child. This child was truly tortured."
Doctors examining the girl said she also had injuries on her body that were in different stages of healing.
Police say LJ has been investigated before by the Department of Children and Families because of similar complaints.
DCF spokesman AR said he couldn't comment on the investigation.
Officials at the girl's school noticed the injuries and called DCF. The girl is now in state custody.
LJ was charged with aggravated child abuse and child neglect, both felonies. She was being held at the County jail without bail Thursday evening.
WS said detectives are looking to see if there are other victims or people involved in the case.
A Chip Off the Ol' Block...
My kids never cease to amaze me. Yesterday, DS 4 had his Open House at school. Since I work the night, I usually have a "private tour" with my child and then send him on home with his brothers and Dad. I should preface this little story with the fact that EVERYONE at my workplace knows they are part of DS 4's "Village"...you know, "It takes a village....". Our bookkeeper is no exception.
This gentleman is a retired bank president who just wanted a "simple job". He is delightful and really loves DS 4 and his wit. Yesterday, just after my private Open House tour, we were in the hallway. The bookkeeper came by and said, "A are you still here?" Without hardly taking a breath, DS 4 said, "Give me a Diet Coke and I'll disappear!"
I couldn't believe it. I think the bookkeeper (who is equally as witty) was a little taken aback by his quick response too. Then, I realized that our bookkeeper is responsible for the snacks and awards that are given away quarterly in my school. This often includes a soda one day with lunch. It's the picture he has of this man in his village.
And I guess, since his mother is a Diet Coke fanatic, it makes sense!! Apples do NOT fall far from trees.
This gentleman is a retired bank president who just wanted a "simple job". He is delightful and really loves DS 4 and his wit. Yesterday, just after my private Open House tour, we were in the hallway. The bookkeeper came by and said, "A are you still here?" Without hardly taking a breath, DS 4 said, "Give me a Diet Coke and I'll disappear!"
I couldn't believe it. I think the bookkeeper (who is equally as witty) was a little taken aback by his quick response too. Then, I realized that our bookkeeper is responsible for the snacks and awards that are given away quarterly in my school. This often includes a soda one day with lunch. It's the picture he has of this man in his village.
And I guess, since his mother is a Diet Coke fanatic, it makes sense!! Apples do NOT fall far from trees.
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